President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that if India does not withdraw its troops, it would undermine the democratic will of Maldivians, adding that the two countries can maintain its defence cooperation without a military presence. He made the remark in an exclusive interview with the Times of India.
In his first interview to an Indian media outlet, President Muizzu said that in the recent presidential election, the Maldivian people have clearly said 'no' to the idea of a foreign military presence in the country. He noted that only India has military personnel stationed in the Maldives, which is why the government requested their withdrawal. He also expressed confidence that India will accept the request due to its strong democratic values and its ties with the Maldives.
Additionally, President Muizzu said the bilateral relations between the two countries has sufficient depth to continue their relationship through diplomatic dialogue and without military personnel stationed in the Maldives. He also said that the presence of foreign military personnel without parliamentary approval is against the spirit of the Constitution of the Maldives.
Furthermore, President Muizzu said the Maldives has not terminated any agreement with India, clarifying that the government decided not to renew its hydrographic survey agreement with India after it expires. He added that he is not against any country and is pursuing a pro-Maldives policy to protect and promote the interests of Maldivians.